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Five Rivers MetroParks has designated a four-mile stretch of the Mad River from Eastwood Park to Downtown Dayton as Mad River Run and constructed this rapids area for more experienced paddlers. TY GREENLEES/STAFF

What is paddling? It’s a generic classification for vessels (and related activities) that are powered by paddles — canoes, kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) and rafts. This does not include rowing with oars or motor boats, said Erik Dahlstrom, outdoor recreation coordinator for Five Rivers MetroParks.

WHERE TO PADDLE

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For beginners: In this region, lakes are a great place to experience paddlesports for the first time, Dahlstrom said.

It’s important to know that rivers are more challenging because of the river’s current and hazards like strainers and low-head dams, he said.

For the more experienced: Eastwood and RiverScape Metroparks have whitewater features that offer more experienced paddlers a place to practice techniques that they will need on more advanced rivers, while also having a separate passage option for less experienced paddlers, he said.

The $4 million RiverScape River Run project will open with a grand opening celebration at 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 5, organizers said in an announcement. (Photo: Five Rivers MetroParks).
(Photo: Five Rivers MetroParks)

You can canoe, kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) in the following MetroParks:

The Stillwater, Great Miami and Mad rivers are part of the Great Miami River Watershed Water Trail – the largest water trail system in Ohio. The trail collectively offers 265 miles of waterway accessible to recreational boaters, fishermen and wildlife watchers. A water trail is a network of publicly accessible facilities that provide opportunities to fish; launch canoes, kayaks, and other craft; and explore the natural and cultural heritage along the river.

Camping, climbing, fishing, geocaching, paddling, slacklining and snow tubing were all part of the fun at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience. The event Oct. 1-2, 2016, at Eastwood Metropark in Dayton offered recreational opportunities for adventurers of all ages, ability levels and interests.There was even fun for the four-legged adventure seekers. PHOTOS BY TOM GILLIAM/CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

WHERE TO RENT EQUIPMENT

Five Rivers MetroParks does not rent paddling equipment, so you will need to bring your own, or rent equipment from:

Camping, climbing, fishing, geocaching, paddling, slacklining and snow tubing were all part of the fun at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience. The event Oct. 1-2, 2016, at Eastwood Metropark in Dayton offered recreational opportunities for adventurers of all ages, ability levels and interests.There was even fun for the four-legged adventure seekers. PHOTOS BY TOM GILLIAM/CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

1. Do your research. Research the body of water you plan to use. Where is there boater access? If something goes wrong, who can you call for help? What is the weather forecast? Do you need any special gear or training to handle the conditions that you will encounter on the day you go paddling? Etc.

2. Create an equipment list. That list should include a lifejacket, boat, paddle, sun protection, water, food/extra snacks, dry clothes, first aid kit, rescue gear for the body of water you are paddling, whistle and cell phone (put cell phone in a waterproof case), etc. and go through this list before every trip so you do not forget something important.

3. Make a plan for your adventure and share it with someone. Map out a detailed plan in advance and leave it with someone who cares about you.

Five Rivers MetroParks has designated a four-mile stretch of the Mad River from Eastwood Park to Downtown Dayton as Mad River Run and constructed this rapids area for more experienced paddlers. TY GREENLEES/STAFF